would probably pass very soon. The ladies were
so incapable, one from pain, the other from terror, of judging what was
best to be done, that the Quaker gentleman decided every thing for them.
He directed the lady's arm to be bathed and hung in a sling, and
advised them to accompany him in the chaise to Exeter, as soon as it
should pass. Charles meanwhile was sitting by the bedside of the
injured man, trying to ascertain the necessary particulars of his name,
place of residence, etcetera. He was now able to speak, and said his
name was Monteath, that his father and mother lived in -- Street,
Exeter, and that Mr Everett was the surgeon whom he wished to attend
him. He said, "Are you going directly? must you leave me now?"
"I shall not leave you till your friends arrive," replied Charles.
"Some of our fellow-passengers will carry our message to Exeter."
"Thank you! God bless you!" were the only words in answer. Presently
he said, "Who are you? You have not told me your name."
Charles told his name.
"Forsyth!" exclaimed Mr Monteath; "surely you are the brother of Miss
Forsyth, whom I have seen at Mr Everett's!"
"I am," said Charles.
"Then do not stay with me," said the youth; "your sister will be
terrified when she hears of the accident."
Charles explained that his sisters did not expect him. He then enquired
whether he did not suffer less than at first.
"Yes, I am rather easier," replied Monteath, "but still it is dreadful
pain. However, I shall have worse to go through before I am better. I
see what is before me: I do not wish to be blind to it."
"I am glad you are not blind to it," replied Charles. "You have
strength of mind and self-command, and if you can keep up for a few
hours, the worst will be over. Your present calmness assures me that
you will keep up."
"I know not," replied Monteath. "Thoughts come crowding upon me faster
than I can bear. This pain is not the worst: yet Oh! how it weakens me!
I ought to feel, even at this moment, that all is right, that this
suffering is for my good."
"It is," said Charles; "and it is this thought which has comforted me
for you. In a few hours you will, I trust, be at ease, and, after that,
all will come easy to you. In the mean time, think whose hand has
brought this evil upon you, and remember that he is pitying your pain.
He also gives strength and courage to those who ask for them."
"I will seek for them," replied Monteath. "Leave
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